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New Year, New Finds: KC Coffee Shops, Events, and Real Estate Insights

January 2025

Author

Joe Crockett
January 15, 2025

Happy New Year!

I’m excited to kick off the year by introducing Porch Talk—a project I’ve been eager to share with you for a while. This monthly newsletter is all about staying connected, informed, and inspired as we explore everything Kansas City has to offer.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • The latest on new businesses, coffee shops, and restaurants to check out

  • Real estate insights to help you make confident decisions, whether you’re buying, selling, or investing

  • Can’t-miss events happening around town

  • Helpful homeowner tips to maximize your home’s value and savings

  • Hidden local gems that deserve a spot on your radar.

I’m thrilled to have you here. Thanks for joining me on the Porch—let’s make this year unforgettable!

Ase Coffee - Grandview’s newest coffee shop has officially opened its doors! Focused on crafting intentional, high-quality coffee, they also have plans to add a liquor license soon. With a cozy stage for live music, expertly brewed drinks, and pastries from Fox and Bull, this spot is set to become a local favorite.

Mildred’s South Plaza - Mildred’s opens its third location at 51st and Main in South Plaza (near Loose Park) in the old Mission Taco (now Session Taco) spot. Mildred’s has one of my favorite breakfast sandwich - the Standard on wheat bread!

Penny’s in the Village - at the Shops of Prairie Village, it is the third concept location for owners Penny and Douglas Mufuka (of Bamboo Penny’s and Aqua Penny’s in Park Place at 117th and Nall). Penny’s in the Village will be chef-driven and offer elevated Thai dishes.

What’s Happening in KC Real Estate

The Greater Kansas City real estate market is showing signs of consistent activity as we enter the new year.

The average sales price has increased by 10% year-over-year to $363,651, and closed sales are up 15.3%, indicating strong buyer demand. However, pending sales are down 8.7%, which suggests that buyers may be sitting on the sidelines as they wait for the incoming presidency, potential policy changes, and rate adjustments.

Rates currently sit around 7%, and with the latest jobs report, the Federal Reserve may push pause on further rate cuts. However, the future direction of rates remains uncertain, which is likely contributing to buyer hesitancy. Many lenders are offering great loan products and incentives to help with the current rate environment. If you’re curious about this, reach out to learn more!

Kansas City Restaurant Week

January 10–19, 2025

A 10-day culinary event featuring special multi-course menus at hundreds of local restaurants, with portions of proceeds benefiting area charities. (visitkc.com)

AFC Divisional Round: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Houston Texans

January 18, 2025 | 3:30 PM

The Kansas City Chiefs host the Houston Texans in the AFC Divisional Round. (sbnation.com)

Jerry Seinfeld & Jim Gaffigan Live

January 18, 2025 | 7:30 PM

Comedy legends Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan team up for a night of laughter at the T-Mobile Center. (kansascity.events)

Stayin' Alive - The Ultimate Bee Gees Show

January 24, 2025 | 7:30 PM

A tribute to the Bee Gees, delivering their greatest hits with a full band at the Uptown Theater. (songkick.com)

The Aladdin Wallbreaking

January 22, 2025 | 12:00 PM

Celebrate the revival of the historic Aladdin Theatre with an exclusive "wallbreaking" event, marking the beginning of its restoration. (allevents.in)

Did you know you could shave six years off your mortgage just by making biweekly payments? 

Here’s how it works: instead of one full payment each month, you split it in half and pay that amount every two weeks.

Over the course of a year, this adds up to 26 half-payments—or 13 full payments instead of the usual 12. That extra payment goes directly toward your principal, helping you pay off your loan faster and saving you thousands (or even tens of thousands!) in interest.

The best part? Many lenders let you set this up automatically, so it’s a simple adjustment with a huge payoff. I was able to set mine up through my mortgage provider’s autopay frequency.

If you’re curious about how much you could save or need help running the numbers, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help!

Check out Fox and Pearl for a great date night spot near the Westside neighborhood. It features a wood-fired menu that’s always evolving and delicious cocktails and natural wines. It’s easily one of our favorites!

Thanks for reading! If you need anything from me, I’m always a text or phone call away.

-Joe

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